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(04/14/05 4:00am)
Indie hip-hop lyricist Aesop Rock (Ian Bavitz) brought his eclectic, urban vibe to the Bluebird's stage last Friday and his energy ran through the entire crowd of more than 400. Heads, hands and hips were moving to the Aesop rhythm. Appearing with Aesop Rock was Mr. Lif, another Definitive Jux Records artist. \n"What's a troop's recipe for treacherous times? I tell 'em fast cars, danger, fire and knives ... " raps Aesop on his new EP that was released this February. \nAesop's unique rhymes demand a good ear. His lyrics are crafted around social issues with a message. Focusing on the contradictions of the modern world in New York City, Aesop arrays his perceptions in each track. The newly released EP Fast Cars, Danger, Fire and Knives exemplifies his confidence in voicing statements through music. \nOne track 7 of Fast Cars, Aesop raps, "It's tough to legislate when scum tongue down a dinner plate of booze, coke, heroine ... I bite the hand that feeds, chew the steak and spit the knuckles back. Stitch him up and give him dap before his brothers rubberneck..." Definitive Jux Records describes the song as a "prescription for mad urban survival and unity." \nMr. Lif added his hailed lyrical talent to the show. Identifiable by his thick dreads, Mr. Lif has toured with the likes of Eminem, Busta Rhymes, the Roots and many others. Friday, Mr. Lif just added to the flavor of Aesop's already spirited and driving sound.\nIntensified by the addictive beats and vivacious language, the large crowd at the Bluebird could not be disappointed. Hangar 18 primed the audience for Aesop's captivating performance. The trio of Alaska, Windnbreeze and paWL, infectiously draw a crowd with their fusion of rock and hip-hop -- oh, and curse words. Also from the NYC underground, Hangar 18 combines hip-hop and rap in an entertaining flow that gets the crowd moving.\nTalent is one thing that Definitive Jux Records knows. Friday's performance proved this true through the personable, interactive, blood-pumping electricity of the artists.
(04/13/05 5:05am)
Indie hip-hop lyricist Aesop Rock (Ian Bavitz) brought his eclectic, urban vibe to the Bluebird's stage last Friday and his energy ran through the entire crowd of more than 400. Heads, hands and hips were moving to the Aesop rhythm. Appearing with Aesop Rock was Mr. Lif, another Definitive Jux Records artist. \n"What's a troop's recipe for treacherous times? I tell 'em fast cars, danger, fire and knives ... " raps Aesop on his new EP that was released this February. \nAesop's unique rhymes demand a good ear. His lyrics are crafted around social issues with a message. Focusing on the contradictions of the modern world in New York City, Aesop arrays his perceptions in each track. The newly released EP Fast Cars, Danger, Fire and Knives exemplifies his confidence in voicing statements through music. \nOne track 7 of Fast Cars, Aesop raps, "It's tough to legislate when scum tongue down a dinner plate of booze, coke, heroine ... I bite the hand that feeds, chew the steak and spit the knuckles back. Stitch him up and give him dap before his brothers rubberneck..." Definitive Jux Records describes the song as a "prescription for mad urban survival and unity." \nMr. Lif added his hailed lyrical talent to the show. Identifiable by his thick dreads, Mr. Lif has toured with the likes of Eminem, Busta Rhymes, the Roots and many others. Friday, Mr. Lif just added to the flavor of Aesop's already spirited and driving sound.\nIntensified by the addictive beats and vivacious language, the large crowd at the Bluebird could not be disappointed. Hangar 18 primed the audience for Aesop's captivating performance. The trio of Alaska, Windnbreeze and paWL, infectiously draw a crowd with their fusion of rock and hip-hop -- oh, and curse words. Also from the NYC underground, Hangar 18 combines hip-hop and rap in an entertaining flow that gets the crowd moving.\nTalent is one thing that Definitive Jux Records knows. Friday's performance proved this true through the personable, interactive, blood-pumping electricity of the artists.
(03/31/05 5:00am)
If you liked the original "Miss Congeniality" and you like Sandra Bullock, you will want to see "Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous." On the flip-side, if you hated the first, then chances are you will hate the second. Again, the movie focuses on friendship -- congeniality. \n"Miss Congeniality 2" picks up three weeks after agent Gracie Hart's (Sandra Bullock) Miss America Pageant. When Hart begins to pick-up where she left off, her pageant days and fame follow her into the field and cause conflict. This time, her notoriety has given her no choice but to become the face of the FBI. Through the power of make-up and another professional named Joel (Diedrich Bader), Agent Hart is "armed and fabulous." \nAs glamorous as Hart is, Agent Sam Fuller (Regina King) is not. Fuller's tongue is as hard as her fist and she does not put up with Hart's pompous demeanor. But when Hart's best friend, Miss America Cheryl Frazier (Heather Burns), and emcee Stan Fields (William Shatner) are kidnapped, Hart and Fuller are forced to work together.\nWhen agents Hart and Fuller arrive in Las Vegas, Hart's job is to promote the FBI and Fuller's job is to be Hart's bodyguard. The simple task goes haywire when Hart begins her own investigation. The Las Vegas FBI Bureau attempts to send Hart, Fuller and Hart's beauty squad home two times, but each time, Hart and Fuller manage to stay in Las Vegas. Thank goodness the female power team sticks to its guns because the dynamic duo saves the day. \nThrough nursing homes, drag shows and treasure boats, the message is clear -- friends support each other through thick and thin. Some scenes are ridiculous, such as when Hart warns the baggage assistants to be careful with her designer suitcase because, "That Fendi has my guns." \nThe storyline is similar to the first "Miss Congeniality," but with an absence of a love interest and new comical lines, "Miss Congeniality 2" still keeps the audience laughing. If you are looking for a fun evening where no thinking is involved, "Miss Congeniality 2" may just fit the bill. But wait until video -- it's not worth $8.
(03/30/05 5:11am)
If you liked the original "Miss Congeniality" and you like Sandra Bullock, you will want to see "Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous." On the flip-side, if you hated the first, then chances are you will hate the second. Again, the movie focuses on friendship -- congeniality. \n"Miss Congeniality 2" picks up three weeks after agent Gracie Hart's (Sandra Bullock) Miss America Pageant. When Hart begins to pick-up where she left off, her pageant days and fame follow her into the field and cause conflict. This time, her notoriety has given her no choice but to become the face of the FBI. Through the power of make-up and another professional named Joel (Diedrich Bader), Agent Hart is "armed and fabulous." \nAs glamorous as Hart is, Agent Sam Fuller (Regina King) is not. Fuller's tongue is as hard as her fist and she does not put up with Hart's pompous demeanor. But when Hart's best friend, Miss America Cheryl Frazier (Heather Burns), and emcee Stan Fields (William Shatner) are kidnapped, Hart and Fuller are forced to work together.\nWhen agents Hart and Fuller arrive in Las Vegas, Hart's job is to promote the FBI and Fuller's job is to be Hart's bodyguard. The simple task goes haywire when Hart begins her own investigation. The Las Vegas FBI Bureau attempts to send Hart, Fuller and Hart's beauty squad home two times, but each time, Hart and Fuller manage to stay in Las Vegas. Thank goodness the female power team sticks to its guns because the dynamic duo saves the day. \nThrough nursing homes, drag shows and treasure boats, the message is clear -- friends support each other through thick and thin. Some scenes are ridiculous, such as when Hart warns the baggage assistants to be careful with her designer suitcase because, "That Fendi has my guns." \nThe storyline is similar to the first "Miss Congeniality," but with an absence of a love interest and new comical lines, "Miss Congeniality 2" still keeps the audience laughing. If you are looking for a fun evening where no thinking is involved, "Miss Congeniality 2" may just fit the bill. But wait until video -- it's not worth $8.
(01/20/05 10:46pm)
Ever since October 1986 when "The Phantom of the Opera" first debuted in London, Andrew Lloyd Webber's modern opera has been drawing the public to stages with its mesmerizing music. The Phantom (Gerard Butler), an outcast from the world, uses his musical talents to entrance an orphaned chorus girl, Christine Daae (Emmy Rossum). Christine's voice is nurtured by an "Angel of Music" she believes her father sent her, but little does she know that the angel is the same feared Phantom that haunts the theater. \nAfter the star diva Carlotta (Minnie Driver) walks out during a dress rehearsal, the new theater managers take their chances with Christine as the diva. \nThe young soprano wins the audience on her debut performance. She even catches the eye of a childhood friend, Raoul de Chagny (Patrick Wilson), who happens to be the patron of the theater. Christine is torn between her devotion to her "Angel of Music" and her passionate love for the handsome Raoul. As the love between Christine and Raoul grows, the Phantom becomes more threatening and terrifying. \nWhile the film gives the audience a behind the scenes glance at the Phantom and his theater, it does not develop the same suspense that the stage performance creates. Thanks to surround sound, the music is more wonderful than ever, sending chills through the audience. It would be addictive even without the thrilling story. \nThe one thing the moviegoer will miss is the feeling that they are caught in the Phantom's opera house. The most disappointing scene in the movie is when the chandelier in the opera house comes crashing onto the stage during a performance. In the stage production, the chandelier that comes crashing down onto the stage is the same chandelier that has been present above the audience during the entire musical. The fear that is inflicted into the hearts of audience members during a stage production in replaced with a deep concern for Christine. The two mediums offer such a different experience that everyone should see both productions. \nLloyd Webber's original stage production is based on Gaston Leroux's novel, "The Phantom of the Opera." For 15 years, Lloyd Webber, director Joel Schumacher and Warner Bros. Pictures have been working to adapt the entrancing love story to film. The long-awaited result is simply breathtaking.
(01/20/05 5:00am)
Ever since October 1986 when "The Phantom of the Opera" first debuted in London, Andrew Lloyd Webber's modern opera has been drawing the public to stages with its mesmerizing music. The Phantom (Gerard Butler), an outcast from the world, uses his musical talents to entrance an orphaned chorus girl, Christine Daae (Emmy Rossum). Christine's voice is nurtured by an "Angel of Music" she believes her father sent her, but little does she know that the angel is the same feared Phantom that haunts the theater. \nAfter the star diva Carlotta (Minnie Driver) walks out during a dress rehearsal, the new theater managers take their chances with Christine as the diva. \nThe young soprano wins the audience on her debut performance. She even catches the eye of a childhood friend, Raoul de Chagny (Patrick Wilson), who happens to be the patron of the theater. Christine is torn between her devotion to her "Angel of Music" and her passionate love for the handsome Raoul. As the love between Christine and Raoul grows, the Phantom becomes more threatening and terrifying. \nWhile the film gives the audience a behind the scenes glance at the Phantom and his theater, it does not develop the same suspense that the stage performance creates. Thanks to surround sound, the music is more wonderful than ever, sending chills through the audience. It would be addictive even without the thrilling story. \nThe one thing the moviegoer will miss is the feeling that they are caught in the Phantom's opera house. The most disappointing scene in the movie is when the chandelier in the opera house comes crashing onto the stage during a performance. In the stage production, the chandelier that comes crashing down onto the stage is the same chandelier that has been present above the audience during the entire musical. The fear that is inflicted into the hearts of audience members during a stage production in replaced with a deep concern for Christine. The two mediums offer such a different experience that everyone should see both productions. \nLloyd Webber's original stage production is based on Gaston Leroux's novel, "The Phantom of the Opera." For 15 years, Lloyd Webber, director Joel Schumacher and Warner Bros. Pictures have been working to adapt the entrancing love story to film. The long-awaited result is simply breathtaking.
(11/03/04 4:37am)
Can a lesbian be a Republican? This summer, Mary Cheney's sexuality made national headlines because of her continued support and involvement in President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney's campaign. Mary Cheney is Dick Cheney's lesbian daughter who lives in Denver with her partner. The vice president and his wife, Lynne, have both stated that they love their daughter and support gay rights, but Mary Cheney has received criticism from some sectors of the gay community because of her support of a party that is assumed in general to not support same-sex marriage.\n"The truth is that (Sen.) John Kerry and (Sen.) John Edwards are not for gay marriage either," said Jimmy LaSalvia, president of the Kentucky Commonwealth Chapter of the Log Cabin Republicans.\n"We are gay and lesbian conservatives who believe in low taxes, small government, a free market and restrained legislation," LaSalvia said of the Log Cabin Republicans, a conservative gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual organization that has chapters across the United States. A chapter in Indiana is still in the process of development.\n"We work within the Republican party to try and educate the party on GLBT issues. The fact of the matter is ... (gay issues are) just one realm of policies," LaSalvia said. "Many in the gay community spent 20 to 30 years educating the Democratic Party because that is the party they affiliated with. We are doing the same thing in the Republican party -- we just got a late start."\nKendra Clarke, a first-year IU graduate student in political science, said she believes sexual orientation only has a small influence on a person's political tendencies. Clarke, a lesbian, said she is a Democrat because she was influenced by her parents' strong liberal leanings. \n"I don't think (sexual orientation) dictates their political tendencies at all. I do think it's easier to jump on the Democratic bandwagon if a person is gay because of more liberal issues," Clarke said. "(My political affiliation) is definitely the way I was brought up. My mom goes into the booths and votes straight Democrat."\nDoug Bauder, coordinator of IU's GLBT Student Support Services, said he believes his being gay is a political statement but at the same time believes that a voter should not focus on one issue. As a teen, Bauder was active in the Republican Party in Pennsylvania as vice president of the Teen GOP.\n"I didn't identify as gay then," Bauder said. \nHis political party support changed after the Nixon presidency. Bauder came out as being gay in the 1980s while he was in his 30s. At the time, Reagan was not giving credence to the AIDS problem, and Bauder said he felt people and the government needed to be more aware of issues relating to sexuality.\n"As I grew up, I realized that my being gay is a political statement, but it's also related to religion," Bauder said. "I think people grow in their awareness of life, and I tried to be open. I was really committed to Republican beliefs when I was kid. I'd be very hard pressed to identify with the GOP -- now not in history, but now."\nMatt Brunner, vice president of the IU College Democrats, believes that being gay is an issue that attracts many non-heterosexual voters to the Democratic Party.\n"If I wasn't so involved in the Democratic Party already, gay rights would persuade me," Brunner said. "If another party completely embraces things that you hold close to, like gay rights, I believe it could persuade you."\nAlthough he's a supporter of gay marriage, Brunner would have liked to see the issue move more slowly than it did, he said. Before the public starts an argument about same-sex marriage, Brunner would like to see equal nondiscriminatory acts passed -- especially on the federal level. \n"Partner benefits is a big thing," Brunner said.\nBrunner has sympathy for Mary Cheney and the situation in which the media has put her.\n"I think it's an awkward situation for her," Brunner said. "Lynne Cheney is not for a constitutional ban on gay marriage, and Cheney said he'd support gay rights, but I thought it was sad that (Lynne Cheney) did not speak at the Republican National Convention whether she wanted to or not."\n"Honestly, Mary Cheney says she doesn't want to be anybody's poster child, and I respect her for that," Clarke said. "Family is forever."\nLaSalvia agrees with Clarke that family is more important than any political battle.\n"I think that they have a very strong family. I think any daughter is going to support her father," LaSalvia said. \nThe Log Cabin Republicans did not endorse Bush in this election, but Bush will probably receive votes from GLBT conservatives "because of the war on terror, trade issues and everyday issues," LaSalvia said. "Republicans are centered around individual freedoms. Many in the party need reminding of that."\n-- Contact staff writer Lucretia Fernandez at lfernand@indiana.edu.
(10/14/04 4:00am)
The Rolling Stones say Umphrey's McGee sounds like Phish.\nUmphrey's McGee has been named by some as the jam band of the Midwest. They relate their style to the legendary Frank Zappa. But if you take Jimmy Page, Jim Morrison and Miles Davis and send them to Jamaica to have a threesome — that's the sound of Umphrey's McGee.\n"Every other band was just kind of flowing along. We like making sections difficult for difficulty's sake — because you can," said Jake Cinninger (guitar, Moog, synthesizers, vocals). "But when it's time to jam, that's when the magic happens."\nJamming and improvisations are the variable that keeps Umphrey's McGee's fans coming back for more. Every concert is guaranteed to be different. As soon as the hand signals come out, the music is purely a reflection of Umphrey's soul.\n"Depending on what's happening, the music is progressive rock," said keyboardist/vocalist Joel Cummins. "Hopefully our transitions are fluid."\nIt was in December 1997, that two bands came together at the University of Notre Dame to form Umphrey's McGee. This past June, the grassroots band that got its start on the road released its first national CD, Anchor Drops.\n"We're all ready to put out another one," said Cinninger. "We want to be known as a great studio band and a great live band."\n"It's emotional usually as you mature as a magician," said bassist Ryan Stasik. \nThe band said it never stops in its search to find a new sound or test themselves by adding another layer to the already complex combinations. It could try a death metal song one day and decide to pull out folk and country the next.\nThe band's Web site says that each song is a collaborative effort between all the band members and is produced by using eight-bar segments and progressions. The primary songwriters are Cinninger and vocalist/guitarist Brendan Bayliss. And no matter what classic band or artist Umphrey's finds inspiration from, the band is determined to avoid cliches and produce a sound that can only be classified as Umphrey's McGee.\n"It's weeding out the bad ideas, and finding the diamonds," said Cinninger.\n"The diamond in the rough," said Stasik.\nUmphrey's performed at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater last Thursday to a sold-out crowd. The band members said they can't remember how many times they have played in Bloomington — maybe 50 times. They consider Bloomington a home away from home. Plus, as drummer Kris Meyers pointed out, Bloomington is a little warmer than Chicago. And the Buskirk-Chumley is one of the few places that has a real piano for Cummins.\nThe band was also willing to help a friend, Abby Cooley, raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training. Abby's older brother is a friend of Umphrey's piano player Cummins. At Thursday's concert, they asked everyone to donate to Abby's cause, and Abby stood by the merchandise table with her can and greeted "Umphreaks" and "McGeeks," asking each person to donate. \nAbby will be running in a marathon hosted by Team in Training in San Francisco October 24. The race is sponsored by Nike.\nWhile Umphrey's is helping some fans with its charitable causes, it is issuing warnings to others. Take glowsticks, for example. The band appreciates the fans' enthusiasm, but the tossing of glowsticks onto the stage became a real problem for Umphrey's McGee. Glowsticks interfered with their performances, becoming such a problem that fans are no longer allowed to have glowsticks at concerts. At the end of the band's online plea for fans not to throw glowsticks, it says, "Folks, the glowsticks are no longer clever. Please keep that in mind."\nWith its silly stories, jokes and passion for trying to find that new chord, Umphrey's McGee is relishing its popularity. Changing a band's sound as often as Umphrey's tries does isn't easy. \n"It takes guts to change it," said Cinninger. And it's those guts that are taking Umphrey's all across the nation to perform. \nIf you missed the show last Thursday, Umphrey's will be back in Indiana\nNovember 12. They will perform at the Murat Center in Indianapolis. For information, visit www.umphreysmcgee.com.
(10/13/04 6:51pm)
The Rolling Stones say Umphrey's McGee sounds like Phish.\nUmphrey's McGee has been named by some as the jam band of the Midwest. They relate their style to the legendary Frank Zappa. But if you take Jimmy Page, Jim Morrison and Miles Davis and send them to Jamaica to have a threesome — that's the sound of Umphrey's McGee.\n"Every other band was just kind of flowing along. We like making sections difficult for difficulty's sake — because you can," said Jake Cinninger (guitar, Moog, synthesizers, vocals). "But when it's time to jam, that's when the magic happens."\nJamming and improvisations are the variable that keeps Umphrey's McGee's fans coming back for more. Every concert is guaranteed to be different. As soon as the hand signals come out, the music is purely a reflection of Umphrey's soul.\n"Depending on what's happening, the music is progressive rock," said keyboardist/vocalist Joel Cummins. "Hopefully our transitions are fluid."\nIt was in December 1997, that two bands came together at the University of Notre Dame to form Umphrey's McGee. This past June, the grassroots band that got its start on the road released its first national CD, Anchor Drops.\n"We're all ready to put out another one," said Cinninger. "We want to be known as a great studio band and a great live band."\n"It's emotional usually as you mature as a magician," said bassist Ryan Stasik. \nThe band said it never stops in its search to find a new sound or test themselves by adding another layer to the already complex combinations. It could try a death metal song one day and decide to pull out folk and country the next.\nThe band's Web site says that each song is a collaborative effort between all the band members and is produced by using eight-bar segments and progressions. The primary songwriters are Cinninger and vocalist/guitarist Brendan Bayliss. And no matter what classic band or artist Umphrey's finds inspiration from, the band is determined to avoid cliches and produce a sound that can only be classified as Umphrey's McGee.\n"It's weeding out the bad ideas, and finding the diamonds," said Cinninger.\n"The diamond in the rough," said Stasik.\nUmphrey's performed at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater last Thursday to a sold-out crowd. The band members said they can't remember how many times they have played in Bloomington — maybe 50 times. They consider Bloomington a home away from home. Plus, as drummer Kris Meyers pointed out, Bloomington is a little warmer than Chicago. And the Buskirk-Chumley is one of the few places that has a real piano for Cummins.\nThe band was also willing to help a friend, Abby Cooley, raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training. Abby's older brother is a friend of Umphrey's piano player Cummins. At Thursday's concert, they asked everyone to donate to Abby's cause, and Abby stood by the merchandise table with her can and greeted "Umphreaks" and "McGeeks," asking each person to donate. \nAbby will be running in a marathon hosted by Team in Training in San Francisco October 24. The race is sponsored by Nike.\nWhile Umphrey's is helping some fans with its charitable causes, it is issuing warnings to others. Take glowsticks, for example. The band appreciates the fans' enthusiasm, but the tossing of glowsticks onto the stage became a real problem for Umphrey's McGee. Glowsticks interfered with their performances, becoming such a problem that fans are no longer allowed to have glowsticks at concerts. At the end of the band's online plea for fans not to throw glowsticks, it says, "Folks, the glowsticks are no longer clever. Please keep that in mind."\nWith its silly stories, jokes and passion for trying to find that new chord, Umphrey's McGee is relishing its popularity. Changing a band's sound as often as Umphrey's tries does isn't easy. \n"It takes guts to change it," said Cinninger. And it's those guts that are taking Umphrey's all across the nation to perform. \nIf you missed the show last Thursday, Umphrey's will be back in Indiana\nNovember 12. They will perform at the Murat Center in Indianapolis. For information, visit www.umphreysmcgee.com.
(09/09/04 4:00am)
As a psychological and romantic thiller, "Wicker Park," starring Josh Hartnett, Matthew Lillard, Rose Byrne and Diane Kruger, is surprisingly good. With twists and turns around every corner, the story slowly develops through scenes that move back and forth in time -- a "Memento" effect. The cinematography makes the movie a must-rental -- at least. Many scenes are shown simultaneously. The lovers, Matthew (Hartnett) and Lisa (Kruger), continuously play a hit-and-miss game set up by Lisa's friend, Alex (Byrne).\nAlthough a romance is involved, Harnett for once shines in a suspenseful movie. "Wicker Park" keeps the viewer, convinced or not, of Harnett's portrayal of obsessive love on his or her toes. It is impossible to figure out how the tangled web is formed until three-quarters of the way through the movie, and by this point the viewer has to find out if, when and how the two lovers will share eternal happiness. Matthew is a photographer in downtown Chicago, and at the beginning of the movie he has the perfect life in his future. He is dating the sister of the wealthy businessman who is opening up doors for him. Matthew even finds himself looking at rings. While doing so one day, ironically, he is reminded of his passionate love, Lisa, after he catches a glimpse of a girl at a bar. All of his dreams of love that have been haunting him resurface, and Matthew becomes ridiculously obsessed with the notion that he can find his love who had vanished without a word. \nThe film continuously revolves around the two lovers, Matthew and Lisa, trying to meet each other at their special place, Wicker Park, in downtown Chicago. The same evening his romance-crazed hunt begins, he is supposed to board a plane to China for business. When Matthew does not board the plane, the search and entanglement begins. Earlier in the day, Matthew runs into his best friend, Luke (Lillard). Luke assists Matthew in finding Matthew's mystery lover. At the same time, Luke is struggling to form a relationship of his own with Alex. As Matthew's and Luke's love lives slowly weave together, poor Luke adds comic relief in his own miserable affair. \nThe plot thickens when identities and friendships begin to be questioned. Every character's mind begins to play tricks on them, whether it is planned or accidental. But not to worry, all those who believe in true love will be content with the ending.\n"Wicker Park" is a perfect date movie. For those who are as obsessed with romance as Matthew and Lisa are will have their heart clinging to these characters. And those who need a little action, dark secrets and great effects will appreciate the movie's capability to grab a viewer's attention.
(09/09/04 2:59am)
As a psychological and romantic thiller, "Wicker Park," starring Josh Hartnett, Matthew Lillard, Rose Byrne and Diane Kruger, is surprisingly good. With twists and turns around every corner, the story slowly develops through scenes that move back and forth in time -- a "Memento" effect. The cinematography makes the movie a must-rental -- at least. Many scenes are shown simultaneously. The lovers, Matthew (Hartnett) and Lisa (Kruger), continuously play a hit-and-miss game set up by Lisa's friend, Alex (Byrne).\nAlthough a romance is involved, Harnett for once shines in a suspenseful movie. "Wicker Park" keeps the viewer, convinced or not, of Harnett's portrayal of obsessive love on his or her toes. It is impossible to figure out how the tangled web is formed until three-quarters of the way through the movie, and by this point the viewer has to find out if, when and how the two lovers will share eternal happiness. Matthew is a photographer in downtown Chicago, and at the beginning of the movie he has the perfect life in his future. He is dating the sister of the wealthy businessman who is opening up doors for him. Matthew even finds himself looking at rings. While doing so one day, ironically, he is reminded of his passionate love, Lisa, after he catches a glimpse of a girl at a bar. All of his dreams of love that have been haunting him resurface, and Matthew becomes ridiculously obsessed with the notion that he can find his love who had vanished without a word. \nThe film continuously revolves around the two lovers, Matthew and Lisa, trying to meet each other at their special place, Wicker Park, in downtown Chicago. The same evening his romance-crazed hunt begins, he is supposed to board a plane to China for business. When Matthew does not board the plane, the search and entanglement begins. Earlier in the day, Matthew runs into his best friend, Luke (Lillard). Luke assists Matthew in finding Matthew's mystery lover. At the same time, Luke is struggling to form a relationship of his own with Alex. As Matthew's and Luke's love lives slowly weave together, poor Luke adds comic relief in his own miserable affair. \nThe plot thickens when identities and friendships begin to be questioned. Every character's mind begins to play tricks on them, whether it is planned or accidental. But not to worry, all those who believe in true love will be content with the ending.\n"Wicker Park" is a perfect date movie. For those who are as obsessed with romance as Matthew and Lisa are will have their heart clinging to these characters. And those who need a little action, dark secrets and great effects will appreciate the movie's capability to grab a viewer's attention.
(02/16/04 4:09am)
The sentence hit me. "It turned out that the U.S. military lost fewer soldiers to hostile fire in Iraq in 2003 than Philadelphia lost residents to murder" (Philadelphia Inquirer, Jan. 2). \nIt was 7 a.m. My drooping eyes widened and read the sentence again -- I wished I was the author who had the pride of writing such a fantastically ironic lead. Then, I contemplated the significance of the sentence.\nDoes this mean U.S. citizens are safer in Iraq than in our own cities? Why is this nation trying to save others -- as honorable as this is -- when we cannot protect our own people? Is self-destruction a greater risk than a North Korean bombing? \nThe answer is in the numbers.\nThe U.S. Department of Defense reports 343 hostile deaths in Iraq from March 2003 until Jan.15, 2004. \nAs large as this number sounds, the Philadelphia Inquirer article tallies an unofficial 347 homicides for the "City of Brotherly Love" in 2003. The Metropolitan Police of the District of Columbia report 248 homicides in 2003. Chicago had 560 murders this past year, excluding the final month, according to state Chicago Police Department statistics. Finally, the Big Apple saw over 500 murders, according to New York Police Department graphs. \nIn Iraq, 22 more soldiers had died than the total number of days the U.S. has been in Iraq. But for every soldier killed, approximately five persons died in one of the four cities listed above. Statistics for 2003 are not posted yet, but Indianapolis, reported 83 homicides in 2002. While this number looks low compared to other major cities, it still says Indianapolis suffered almost seven deaths a month. Should that not be headline news?\nI feel deceived by the media. The soldiers' deaths receive front-page coverage and are displayed as examples of the horror of violence, however, a murder within our own country will not receive coverage unless it is an unusual incident. "If it bleeds, it leads." So, how many murder stories receive the attention they deserve? Are city homicides so common among us we overlook them unless one affects us directly? Why is war "news," and murder mundane?\nFor the past month, I tried to read three to four newspapers a day -- the Wall Street Journal, Indianapolis Star, Indiana Daily Student and The New York Times. The only homicide articles I can remember are related to Iraq, Iran and the Gaza Strip. Obviously this is not a proper scientific test, but on the other-hand, I remember more articles about Kurds dying in the past month than articles about U.S. citizens murdered. \nTelevision has only so many hours, a newspaper only has so many pages and radio only has so many minutes. In the media industry, the sifting of news stories -- agenda setting -- is necessary, however, a million grains of news are not reported. Agenda setting can result in an ignorant audience. \nIs the agenda warped toward war because we are bored with the average murder or because everyday murder is not a perceived threat? I want to know the news from Iraq, but am I willfully ignorant of everyday violence?\nMaybe and maybe not. Evil will always exists in the world, and the media can never tell the whole story. But we had better keep things in perspective.
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
Making Delta Chi history, the Otis R. Bowen Scholarship was awarded to junior Patrick Thomas Wednesday night. Promoting academic achievement, the $400 tuition scholarship is named in the honor of Indiana's former governor, Dr. Otis R. Bowen.\n"Doc," the first Hoosier governor to serve eight consecutive years, pledged Delta Chi fraternity in the late 1930s at IU. Having served in former President Ronald Reagan's cabinet in 1985 as secretary of Health and Human Services, Bowen is one of Delta Chi's most accomplished members.\n"I'm surprised and delighted," Bowen said. "I thank them and give them lots of credit."\nMat Kremke, a Delta Chi alumnus and scholarship board member, emphasized that the 73-year-old Indiana chapter of Delta Chi wants to grow and encourages academic achievement along with enriching social skills and creating bonds for life. \n"Fraternities are changing," said Delta Chi Alumni Relations Secretary Jim Banks, a senior. "We're trying to attract members and award members for top academics."\nThe public scholarship foundation is small but expanding. Fundraising is scheduled to begin in October. \nScholarship applicants were asked to submit an essay describing what it meant to them to be a Delta Chi member. Only members living in the house can receive the Otis R.Bowen Scholarship.\nThe dinner in honor of Bowen and the new scholarship, began 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. Among those present were Kent Benson, MVP of IU's undefeated 1976 basketball team; City Councilman Michael Diekhoff; Dean of Students Richard McKaig and District Circuit Representative for Congressman John Hostettler, Chris Crabtree.\n"I congratulate Delta Chi for creating the Delta Chi Scholarship. It's wonderful," Bowen said during his speech.\nAs one of the most loved Hoosier governors, Bowen is known for his 1973 property tax reform bill. While a member of Reagan's cabinet, he worked on major medical catastrophic insurance for seniors. \nBowen attended IU for his A.B. and M.D. degrees. He was commissioned as first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Medical Correspondents. He advanced to captain in World War II. He then set up a family practice in Indiana and went on to become Marshall County coroner in 1952. \nBefore becoming Indiana's 42nd governor in 1972, Bowen served for 14 years as a republican in the Indiana House of Representatives. Following his governorship and before being confirmed into Reagan's cabinet, Bowen became head of a family practice at the IU Medical School in Indianapolis. Dr. Bowen now resides in Bremen, Ind.
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
Indiana state Sen. Murray Clark spoke to the IU College Republicans and other students Tuesday night at the Indiana Memorial Union. The native of Indianapolis emphasized the importance of being involved in politics, while also addressing the topics of leadership, taxes and improvement of job opportunities.\nClark ran for Indiana lieutenant governor in the 2000 elections with gubernatorial candidate David McIntosh. The senator said he is considering running for governor in 2004, but has not made any final decisions.\n"It's awfully early (to be talking about the next election). There is a lot to get done in the mean time," Clark said.\nClark opened by relaying his family history. Growing up in a political family of both Democrats and Republicans, Clark believes he has experienced both views and ideals. He also attributes his interest and involvement in politics to his early participation in campaigns. \n"When I was young, you got involved in elections and politics," he said. "I started passing out pins and look where it led me."\nClark greatly encouraged the students present to become involved and if nothing else, vote. He used his director of campaigning, Sarah Steeles, as an example of the opportunities for involvement. Steeles graduated from IU in 1997 and was present Tuesday. \n"Let me tell you who legislators are most concerned about -- people who vote in their district," Clark said. "You make a difference."\nElected to the Senate in 1994, Clark was re-elected in 1998. Having experience in legislature, law and "Hoosierness," as he calls it, Clark is proud to have worked on a school safety bill and to have co-authored a domestic violence bill during his time in office. \nDevoting much of the evening to taxes, Clark said Indiana faces three difficult fiscal challenges. \nThe $2 billion surplus that Hoosiers were wondering what to do with is gone, Clark said. In short, Indiana is broke. Clark believes this is due to a lack of investment in informational technology. Indiana is one of the top ranking states in exporting intelligent young people. The state needs to create jobs for them at home in order for the state to rise above the national economic downfall, he said.\nTo assist the creation of new jobs, Clark said he believes the Indiana taxes need restructured. The last restructuring took place in 1960.\nLast, but not least, the tax reassessment needs to be completed. The state Supreme Court ruled Indiana's tax plan is unconstitutional. There has been delay in the reassessing process, so much delay that if the state does not have the taxes reassessed by the year 2002, the court will proceed in finishing the business themselves.\nClark answered numerous questions and reflected on the need for the Republican party to convey their message to the public better. \n"As a Republican party, we have not done a good job of conveying our issues," Clark said.
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
Raising awareness for missing IU student Jill Behrman, about 1,400 community residents and IU students woke up early Saturday morning to "Run for Jill" in the sixth annual Jill Behrman Run for the End Zone at the Mellencamp Pavilion. All proceeds go toward the Jill Behrman Leader Scholarship fund and the Jill Behrman fund. Behrman has been missing since May 31, 2000.\n"We are united against violence," said Director of IU Recreational Sports Kathryn Bayless, opening the event. "This is a family (the Behrman family) that inspires us … they are persevering to make something good out of a nightmare."\nA warm-up was led by Recreational Sports' professional Fitness/Wellness staff with the help of the Behrmans -- Jill's parents Eric and Marilyn Behrman, her brother Brian, a graduate of IU, and her grandfather. They saw the 5K runners off before starting the non-competitive 5K walk. \nPatrick Gross, a freshman, won the 5K run in a time of 15:29.\n"It was a very nice day — the weather was great," said Eric Behrman after completing his 3.1 miles. "It's been a great day with the community."\nNew to the event this year was the competition between teams in six divisions of community and business, residence halls, community schools, greek teams and other campus teams. Brian Behrman's fraternity, Delta Upsilon, ran and walked. The entire house, including pledges -- a total of 70 participants -- created the largest team in the event. \n"It's really good to see the community pull together like this," Delta Upsilon senior Mark Ruddy said.\nThe School of Public and Environmental Affairs also had a large team of 39 members. As part of Students Taking Active Rolls Today, a community service group within SPEA, graduate student Helena Miller was the persuasive voice that formed the large team. \n"We are a group of people that want to give to others," Miller said. "Plus, we wanted to win (the largest team award)."\nOther participants included Ladies First, who sang the national anthem and also took part in the 5K walk.\nOther participants, like Jeong Soon Choi, an international law school student from South Korea, said they ran for the sake of humanity. \n"We should take care of each other," Choi said.\nThe day concluded with door prizes and a small auction. \n"It's so amazing to see so many people," Marilyn Behrman reflected. "I can't believe so many students rolled out of bed this morning. I'm amazed at the number of people who helped put on the event and how much time they put into it. Jill would be really surprised at the amount of support."
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
The IU Police Department received "South Region Champion" honors at the 2001 Operation Pull Over Traffic Safety Banquet Friday.\nUpon receiving the plaque and $2,000 grant, Sgt. Tim Lewis, representing the IUPD, said, "We are very proud to be recognized for this endeavor. During the last enforcement operation, we discovered that there was 80 percent compliance with the state's seat belt laws. We feel that this is an example of our community's concern for their safety."\nGiven by the Governor's Council on Impaired and Dangerous Driving, a division of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, the banquet recognized heroes of Operation Pull Over. \nThe program was a survey conducted by number of Indiana police departments. \nThe Governor's Council created Operation Pull Over to increase traffic safety by increasing seat belt usage and decrease impaired driving crashes, fatalities and injuries.\nThe program is a combined public information and enforcement campaign aimed at fulfilling the Governor's Council's goals.\nStructured in four sessions each year, each session is four weeks of public education. Immediately following a session, enforcement is increased for two weeks.\nDuring the last four-week blitz, IUPD officers stood on corners recording the number of individuals who wore seat belts.\nSgt. Shannon Ramey said he was proud of the officers who participated in Operation Pull Over.\n"I think it's great," Ramey said. "They all performed above average. They did their job."\nMore than 225 law enforcement agencies across Indiana participate in Operation Pull Over. Twenty-three of the agencies and seven individuals were acknowledged for their exceptional efforts in their communities.\n"We're happy to receive the grant," IUPD Lt. Jerry Minger said. "It reflects good on the department and community as a whole."\nSeat belt usage in Indiana has been steadily improving, Jerry McCory, director of the Governor's Council, said in a statement.\n"More Hoosiers than ever are buckling up," McCory said. "Indiana also has achieved the lowest number of motor vehicle fatalities in the State's history.\n"The Indiana University Police Department has done a tremendous job in helping Indiana attain these accomplishments"
(07/25/02 8:23pm)
Republican National Committee Deputy Chairman Jack Oliver, will speak at 7 p.m. tonight in Woodburn Hall 101. \nAs National Finance Director for former Texas governor George W. Bush's presidential campaign, Oliver broke the presidential fundraising records by raising $37 million in 120 days. The total amount raised for the campaign under Oliver's leadership was a record $99 million.\n"He is important because he is a leader in the national Republican party. He's young and already has an extensive high-ranking background," junior Sarah Milligan, organizer of the event, said. "Mr. Oliver will talk about the Bush campaign and most likely relate funny stories. He will describe what he does at the RNC and tell of personal experiences."\nAt the age of 33, Oliver has served in many campaign roles as well as in the offices of Senator Jack Danforth, Senator Kit Bond, Senator John Ashcroft, Congressman Jim Talent, Congressman Bill Emerson and the Missouri Republican party.\nHe will be discussing Republican party politics viewed through a national lens.\n"Mr. Oliver will be addressing national Republican issues," sophomore Casey Cox, president of IU College Republicans, said. "He will bring us a national perspective."\nStudents studying business, public affairs, law, political science and journalism may have a particular interest in Oliver's experiences as a political strategist and chief operating officer. Students will have the opportunity to ask Oliver questions pertaining to his various positions as well as those pertaining to the Bush administration. \n"He has done so many things and can touch upon different aspects," sophomore Derek Molter, a member of College Republicans, said.\n"It will be a very interesting and informative hour," Milligan said.
(02/25/02 6:09am)
UNIVERSITY PARK, Penn. -- The IU women's track and field team would have been in good shape if it controlled its own destiny heading into the final event of the Big Ten Indoor Championships. The event was the 4x400-meter relay, and IU broke the meet record in a time of 3:40.44.\nBut IU didn't control its destiny.\nAll Michigan needed to do was finish fourth in the relay, and that's where the Wolverines finished, thus topping IU 116-114.5.\nFreshman Charlene Maddox, sophomore Chiama Ndubisi, junior Rachelle Boone and senior Tia Trent combined to set the record in the 4x400 relay, and Trent won the 400-meter dash as well.\nStill, all of that wasn't quite enough to translate into a team title.\n"I'm happy to say that we won the 4x4 (relay)," said Trent, the first Hoosier to win the 400 since 1995. "We all worked together. I'm blessed I won my individuals. But I'm sorry we didn't win the indoor championship."\nTrent was one of many Hoosiers to have strong performances. Going into the mile final, freshman Mindy Peterson and sophomore Audrey Giesler were ranked first and third after winning their preliminary trials the day before. Peterson fell right behind the leader at the beginning of the race, and Giesler led the following pack. After four laps, both Peterson and Giesler had dropped back. But by the end of the race, Peterson and Giesler regained their strength and sprinted into fifth and seventh place.\nPeterson, however, was disqualified following a controversial call, which gave Michigan one more point and held back a possible three points for IU.\nSophomore Jennifer Cobbina and juniors Tandra Foster and Rose Richmond were close to a clean sweep in the long jump placing second, third and fourth. The women contributed a boost to IU's score for the first day. \nThe first points scored by IU were scored by junior Kelley McKinney in the 20-pound weight throw. McKinney placed fourth with a throw of 18.90 meters. \nBeing back home in the Keystone state brought family and friends to watch freshman Emily Tharpe make an impressive vault to place second in the pole vault. She set a personal record vault of 12-10. \nThe event began with a moment of silence for pole vaulter Kevin Dare of Penn State, who died the first day of the Men's Big Ten Indoor Track and Field Competition in Minneapolis. The men's conference was cancelled, and the meet will not be rescheduled, Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany said.\nChristina Archibald jumped into a third-place tie in the high jump, covering a height of 5 feet, 8 and one half inches. Although the freshman is excited about placing at the Big Ten, Archibald wished she could have done better. \n"I know I can clear it (the next height)," she said. "I need to clear it to make provisionals." \nArchibald will have one more chance to make her goal a reality at the Last Chance meet next weekend.\nIn the 400-meter run, three Hoosiers competed in the same heat -- Trent, Ndubisi and Maddox. The women placed first, third and fourth in their heat and added more points to the score. Ndubisi placed third and Maddox placed fifth in the final, which Trent won.\nNot even 10 seconds went by, and juniors Danielle Carruthers and Rachelle Boone swept the 60-meter dash. Breaking the all-time Big Ten record of 7.33, Carruthers sprinted into a first-place finish with a time of 7.26. Boone, placing second, ran a 7.37. \nWith little rest in between the 60-meter dash and the 60-meter hurdles, Carruthers, ranked first in nation for the 60 hurdles, placed sixth in the event. \nBoone and Carruthers went on to place first and third in the 200-meter run. The competition was Boone's chance to set an all-time Big Ten record time of 23.47. \nCourtney Bell placed third in her final 800-meter run. The senior finished with a time of 2:09.86, less than a second behind first place.\n"I've gotten fourth the past two years," Bell said. "This year I got my (personal record) and a medal as well"
(02/22/02 6:27am)
With a focus on team performance, the IU women's indoor track and field team heads to Penn State this weekend to compete for the Big Ten Championship. \nThe Hoosiers are projected to compete well across the board. Heading into the conference, 21 IU athletes are ranked in the top 10 in the Big Ten. Twelve of the 21 are ranked in the top three in their respective events.\nIn 2000, IU came away with the Big Ten title after scoring a record number of points. Healthy and ready, the Hoosiers look for their fourth indoor conference win.\nHead coach Randy Heisler projects that if every athlete competes as well as each has competed all year, the team will win the meet. The competition is tough, but there is good reason to believe that IU will dominate the field. \nTo win, IU must score in all four areas -- throws, jumps, distance and sprints. \n"This is the first time since I've been here we may be able to do some serious damage in all four areas," Heisler said.\nFor the weight throw, senior Heather Colyer and junior Kelley McKinney are tied for second in the Big Ten rankings. Last year, McKinney placed 11th at the conference, and she has increased her distance by 12 feet. Colyer is also ranked seventh for shot put.\nAt Penn State's Collegiate Championship Feb. 8-9, juniors Rose Richmond and Tandra Foster, along with sophomore Jennifer Cobbina, swept the long jump by scoring 1-2-3. All three women are ranked in the Big Ten -- first, fourth and fifth, respectively. \nFreshman Carolyn Schopf is ranked second in the triple-jump. Also a freshman, Christina Archibald is ranked fourth in the high jump. The freshmen have been improving and surprising spectators all season. \nJumps coach, Wayne Pate, believes the women are ready. \nHe said they're well-prepared, well-rested, very motivated and very talented. Pate is anxious to see the ladies meet their goals.\n Another freshman to watch is Emily Tharpe, who is ranked second in the pole vault and is returning to her home state. \n The distance girls looked stronger and stronger over the past few meets. Freshman Mindy Peterson, ranked second in the mile, ran an impressive and aggressive race at the Penn State Collegiate this year. \n Sophomore Audrey Geisler is ranked seventh in the mile. Senior Courtney Bell is ranked fifth in the 800-meter run. Heisler said she'd love to see Bell do well at her final indoor conference performance.\nSprints are expected to bring in many points for the Hoosiers. IU has arguably some of the best sprinters in the country. \nSprint coach Ed Bathea said if the girls stay mentally focused, they will succeed in fulfilling their goals. \n"I'm excited about the possibilities of this weekend," he said.\nSenior Tia Trent, ranked first in the conference (400-meter run), has had a strong past three years and is ready to race well at Penn State. Sophomore Charlene Maddox is ranked right behind Trent at third, and junior Chiama Ndubisi is ranked 10th. The 200-meter dash should bring in points for IU. Sophomores Rachelle Boone and Danielle Carruthers are ranked first and fifth in the conference along with freshman Ara Towns in eighth. Boone has a chance to win the 60-meter dash with her top-ranked time. Carruthers is ranked first in the 60-meter hurdles with her nationally-ranked time, and she is ranked third in the 60-meter dash.
(02/18/02 6:16am)
IU hosted the Hoosier Hills Open this past weekend as a tune-up for next weekend's Big Ten Indoor Track and Field Championship.\nDanielle Curruthers posted a new American collegiate record and the fourth best time in the world in the 60m hurdles last weekend at Penn State. At the Hoosier Hills Open, Curruthers set a personal record and proved her speed by winning the 60m dash with a time of 7.34. Curruthers is now tied for seventh in the nation with Muna Lee of TCU and Elva Goldbourne of Auburn.\nThe Hoosier women dominated the 800m race. Sophomore Audrey Giesler and freshmen Mindy Peterson and Ashley Groth claimed the top three spots with a leading time of 2:13.\nLiving up to her outstanding performance last weekend at the USTAC Collegiate Cup, freshman Carolyn Schopf matched her personal record of 1.65m to place third in the high jump.\nFreshman Emily Tharpe placed third in the pole vault. Sophomores Emily Tipton and Abigail Paul each achieved personal bests in the pole vault.\nWinning by nine seconds and racing their fastest time of the 2002 season, the IU 4x400m relay team closed the meet with a time of 3:49.55.\nThe focus now for the track and field team is the Big Ten Conference meet hosted by Penn State this coming weekend. The ladies are working towards a victory and hope to come home satisfied. \n"When we head into the Big Tens, we are competing as a team and a lot of people are going to run a lot of events," said Coach Randy Heisler. "We're going for the win. If we qualify for the NCAA's in the process, that's great if they can do that, but our focus is on the team"